Interactive kiosk for branchless banking

ABSTRACT

An automated banking terminal for facilitating a financial transaction is provided. The automated banking terminal includes a processor, a display for presenting a set of customer menu options, and a communication interface. The automated banking terminal also includes expansion slots which have a mechanical interface and an electrical interface. Expansion modules may be connected to the processor through the expansion slots. An expansion module may be a cash dispensing module, a cash receiving and counting module, a check receiving module, a printer, a scanner, a biometric interface, a signature pad, an account card reader, or an account card programmer. The processor of the automated banking terminal is configured to detect the expansion module and determine additional menu options to supplement the customer menu options based on detecting the expansion module.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent ApplicationNo. 61/503,524, entitled “INTERACTIVE KIOSK FOR BRANCHLESS BANKING”,which was filed on Jun. 30, 2011, the contents of which are incorporatedby reference in its entirety herein.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Various embodiments of the present invention relate generally tomulti-function kiosks and networked systems in which such kiosks aredeployed. More specifically, various embodiments of the presentapplication relate to an automated banking terminal kiosk with expansionslots and expansion modules and automated menu option configuration.

BACKGROUND

While online banking has increased in popularity, many bankingtransactions still cannot be completed exclusively through exchange ofdata over a network because these transactions involve exchange oftangible items. These transactions may involve cash deposits, cashwithdrawals, check deposits, account cards, printed documents, documentsrequiring physical signatures, or other tangible items. In these cases,a customer must complete the transaction at a location which facilitatesthe exchange of these tangible objects. In addition, other transactionsmay require the use of biometric data and, therefore, also cannot becompleted over the Internet or through some type of voice or dataexchange.

It is costly for banks to establish staffed bank branches at locationswhich are convenient for all of their customers. Technology has enabledautomatic teller machines (ATMs) to perform some banking functions in awider variety of locations which are more convenient for customers. ATMsare typically designed to perform a small number of specific types ofbanking transactions in a fully automated manner. Adapting an ATM toperform a new type or set of transactions typically requiresreconfiguring or retrofitting of the hardware, reloading of software,and/or replacement of the ATM.

ATMs are typically located in public or semi-public locations. Somecustomers have security and personal safety concerns with respect toperforming banking transactions in these locations because thetransactions often involve confidential or risky activities such ashandling of cash, use of account cards, entry of personal identificationnumbers (PINs), entry of other transaction data, and/or opening ofwallets and purses. As ATMs become more sophisticated, the transactionsperformed at them will also become more complex in many cases. Thesemore complex transactions may require customers to perform more of theseconfidential or risky activities in public or semi-public locations. Inaddition, more complex transactions may increase the time it takes eachcustomer to complete their transaction thereby increasing wait times atATMs and/or increasing the number of ATMs which must be installed tomeet the demand.

SUMMARY

While multiple embodiments are disclosed, still other embodiments of thepresent invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art fromthe following detailed description, which shows and describesillustrative embodiments of the invention. As will be realized, theinvention is capable of modifications in various aspects, all withoutdeparting from the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, thedrawings and detailed description are to be regarded as illustrative innature and not restrictive.

In some embodiments, an automated banking terminal for facilitating afinancial transaction is provided. The automated banking terminalincludes a processor, a display for presenting a set of customer menuoptions, and a communication interface. The automated banking terminalalso includes expansion slots which have a mechanical interface and anelectrical interface. Expansion modules may be connected to theprocessor through the expansion slots. An expansion module may be a cashdispensing module, a cash receiving and counting module, a checkreceiving module, a printer, a scanner, a biometric interface, asignature pad, an account card reader, or an account card programmer.The processor of the automated banking terminal is configured to detectthe expansion module and determine additional menu options to supplementthe customer menu options. The additional menu items may be based ondetecting the expansion module.

In some embodiments, the automated banking terminal is also configuredto detect discontinued operation of the expansion module and remove theadditional menu options from the customer menu options.

In some embodiments, the automated banking terminal includes a camerafor monitoring a customer and performs analysis on an image from thecamera to determine an identity or mood of the customer. The analysismay be performed by a processor of the automated banking terminal or byanother device in another location.

In some embodiments, the automated banking terminal is configured toinitiate a live interactive help session with a remote customer serviceagent based on the identity or the mood of the customer.

In other embodiments, the camera of the automated banking terminal isconfigured to monitor an area around the automated banking terminal. Theprocessor is configured to perform analysis on an image received fromthe camera to determine the size of the line of customers waiting to usethe automated banking terminal, estimate a wait time based on the sizeof the line, and transmit the estimated wait time over the communicationinterface.

In some embodiments, the processor in the automated banking terminal isconfigured to establish a wireless communication session with acustomer's mobile computing device and receive instructions for thefinancial transaction. The instructions are input by the customer into auser interface of the mobile computing device. The instructions may becommunicated from the mobile communication device to the automatedbanking terminal either directly or indirectly.

In some embodiments, the expansion module in the automated bankingterminal is a printer and the processor of the automated bankingterminal is configured to print a document associated with a customeraccount when the customer accesses the account.

In some embodiments, the automated banking terminal is configured toestablish a communication session through the communication interfacewith a second automated banking terminal located within a designateddistance of the automated banking terminal. The automated bankingterminal then receives feature information describing one or moreexpansion modules of the second automated banking terminal anddetermines ancillary menu options to supplement the set of customer menuoptions based on the received feature information for the expansionmodule of the second automated banking terminal.

In some embodiments, the expansion module is configured to receive acash deposit and the processor is configured to determine a depositamount of the cash deposit. The processor then provides an access codewhich enables withdrawal of cash in an amount less than or equal to thedeposit amount at a second automated banking terminal.

In other embodiments, the expansion module is configured to receive acash deposit from a customer and the processor is further configured todetermine a deposit amount of the cash deposit. The processor thencredits a gift card account in an amount less than or equal to thedeposit amount.

In some embodiments, the automated banking terminal provides a gift cardassociated with a gift card account to the customer.

In some embodiments, a method of facilitating a financial transaction atan automated banking terminal is provided. The method includes the stepsof launching a transaction staging application on a computing device andentering transaction data associated with the financial transaction intothe transaction staging application in a user interface of the computingdevice. The method also includes the steps of retrieving the transactiondata at the automated banking terminal in response to initiation of thefinancial transaction at the automated banking terminal and completingthe financial transaction at the automated banking terminal using theretrieved transaction data.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Embodiments of the present invention will be described and explainedthrough the use of the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary operating environment in which someembodiments of the present invention may be utilized.

FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of an automated banking terminal inan exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary method of facilitating a financialtransaction at an automated banking terminal.

FIG. 4 illustrates an automated banking terminal.

FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary sequence of menu options presented on adisplay of an automated banking terminal.

FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary method of configuring an automatedbanking terminal.

FIG. 7 illustrates an example of a computer system with which someembodiments of the present invention may be utilized.

The drawings have not necessarily been drawn to scale. For example, thedimensions of some of the elements in the figures may be expanded orreduced to help improve the understanding of the embodiments of thepresent invention. Similarly, some components and/or operations may beseparated into different blocks or combined into a single block for thepurposes of discussion of some of the embodiments of the presentinvention. Moreover, while the invention is amenable to variousmodifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments have beenshown by way of example in the drawings and are described in detailbelow. The intention, however, is not to limit the invention to theparticular embodiments or implementations described. On the contrary,the invention is intended to cover all modifications, equivalents, andalternatives falling within the scope of the invention as defined by theappended claims.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Various embodiments of the present invention relate generally toautomated banking transactions. More specifically, various embodimentsof the present invention relate to an automated banking terminal withexpansion slots, expansion modules, and automated menu configuration.Some embodiments also relate to methods of facilitating a financialtransaction at the automated banking terminal.

As financial institutions strive to provide more convenient bankingoptions for their customers, the use of automated banking terminals willincrease. The number and variety of transactions performed at theseterminals will also increase. The changing nature of these transactionsand the desire by financial institutions to continue adding new featuresfor existing services will increase the need to make configuration ofautomated banking terminals more flexible. This flexibility will benecessary in order to avoid replacing or retrofitting the terminals eachtime a function or feature is added. While some feature additions may beaccomplished with software upgrades which do not require hardwarechanges, many feature additions will require hardware changes as theyinvolve operations such as handling of cash, handling of account cards,printing or scanning or documents, biometric interfaces, or otherfeatures related to tangible items.

To minimize costs as well as minimize a disruption to customerfamiliarity with the banking terminals, it is desirable to implementmodular banking terminals in which features and functional modules maybe added without replacing the terminal altogether or even withoutperforming a significant reconfiguration of the terminal. This approachallows the financial institution to keep a standardized platform ofbanking terminals and implement features at various locations onas-needed or as-desired basis, by adding or replacing expansion modules,rather than the all-or-nothing approach associated with replacing entireterminals with new models.

An automated banking terminal which automatically reconfigures its userinterface and menu structures provides further flexibility in severalrespects. First, the upgrade process is efficient. A technician needonly physically install the module and allow the banking terminal toautomatically reconfigure itself rather than spending the time toperform a manual reconfiguration process. A manual reconfigurationprocess increases cost, causes downtime, and is subject to human error.Second, modules may be easily removed from the banking terminal forrepair or upgrade without a significant impact to the operation of thebanking terminal. Finally, the banking terminal can detect andaccommodate a failed or removed module by automatically reconfiguringmenu options. This allows the banking terminal to continue operationwithout displaying to customers invalid menu options associated with themodule which has failed or has been removed. The self-detection featureof the banking terminal may provide such status to a central host, thusallowing for an up-to-date index of the functionality available at eachbanking terminal. Customers may receive information regarding thespecific functionality available at each banking terminal from adatabase or from the banking terminal itself.

The automated banking terminal also has other intelligent features whichmakes it more customer-friendly and able to meet more of the customerbanking transaction needs which may have been traditionally performed ata staffed bank branch. These intelligent features may include processingcash deposits, generating gift or cash cards, making cash available atother terminals to other parties, printing documents, scanningdocuments, as well as other features. These intelligent features mayalso include use of a camera to monitor the customer's experience duringthe transaction, provide live customer support from a remote location,or determine the number of people waiting to use the terminal.

As features like those described above, as well as others, are added tobanking terminals, many of the transactions performed at these bankingterminals will become more complex. As the transactions become morecomplex, there is an increased likelihood of transactions involvingconfidential and/or personally risky activities being performed at thebanking terminals. Customers may be concerned about the amount ofinformation which may be in view of others as they perform thesetransactions in public or semi-public locations. When these transactionsinvolve the handling of cash, checks, credit cards, financial papers, orother sensitive items, the risks, or perceived risks, may increasefurther.

Therefore, in some cases it will be beneficial to have the ability tostage transactions at a location other than the banking terminal byentering as much of the transaction information as possible beforeapproaching the banking terminal. This may be accomplished on a mobiledevice while near the location of the banking terminal or on a computerat an entirely different location. These steps could potentially beperformed anywhere including in the customer's locked car just stepsaway from the banking terminal. When ready, the staged information iselectronically transferred to, or retrieved by, the banking terminal andthe customer completes the transaction by performing the remaining stepsat the banking terminal. The remaining steps are those which requiresome type of physical interaction with the banking terminal or transferof tangible objects to/from the banking terminal.

Minimizing the amount of interaction required at the banking terminalminimizes the use of personal or confidential information in the publicsetting and minimizes the time spent handling sensitive items whilestanding at the banking terminal in a potentially vulnerable setting.Minimizing the amount of interaction required at the banking terminalmay also reduce the wait time by reducing the amount of time eachcustomer spends at the banking terminal. In some cases, customers maysimply stage their transactions on their mobile device while standing inline waiting to use the banking terminal.

In the following description, for the purposes of explanation, numerousspecific details are set forth in order to provide a thoroughunderstanding of embodiments of the present invention. It will beapparent, however, to one skilled in the art that embodiments of thepresent invention may be practiced without some of these specificdetails. Although many of the embodiments are described with referenceto making cash deposits and performing other transactions at anautomated banking terminal, the illustrated applications of theembodiments of the present invention are not meant to be limiting, butinstead exemplary. The invention may apply to many other types offinancial transactions performed in a variety of ways and is intended tocover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling withinthe scope of the invention as defined by the appended claims.

Having described embodiments of the invention generally, attention isnow directed to FIG. 1 which illustrates an example of an operatingenvironment 100 in which some embodiments of the present invention maybe utilized. The embodiments of the present invention illustrated inFIG. 1 allow financial transactions to be performed in a number ofdifferent ways. Operating environment 100 comprises personal computer110, mobile device 120, banking network 130, network 140, bank 150, ATMnetwork 160, and automated banking terminal 170.

Personal computer 110 may be any type of computing device which acustomer uses to access or exchange information with a network or withanother computing device. Personal computer 110 may be a computer,server, gaming console, set top box, Internet kiosk, network accessterminal, or network access device of another type. Mobile device 120may be any type of transportable computing device which a customer canuse to access or exchange information with a network or with anothercomputing device. Mobile device 120 may be a phone, smartphone, personaldigital assistant (PDA), tablet computer, netbook, or transportablecomputer. Computer 110 and mobile device 120 may connect to network 140directly or through other devices or connections including routers,hubs, Wi-Fi connections, modems, or other devices.

Banking network 130 may include any number of membership organizations,banks, credit unions, or financial institutions. In accordance withembodiments of the present invention, banking network 130 can use avariety of interaction methods, protocols, and systems. For example,banking network 130 may use any of the automated clearing house (ACH)networks. An ACH network may be operated by NACHA (previously referredto as the National Automated Clearing House Association). Another ACHnetwork may be the Electronic Payments Network (EPN). These ACH networksmay interact to settle ACH transactions involving a party that has arelationship with only NACHA's ACH network or only the EPN. Otherbanking networks, such as CIRRUS, NYCE, and PULSE may also be used.

Bank 150 may be a bank or other type of financial services institutionincluding an insurance company, a credit union, a brokerage company, amortgage company, or an investment services company. ATM network 160 maybe any set of ATMs in an interbank ATM network and/or intrabank ATMnetwork.

Automated banking terminal 170 may be any type of interface whichcustomers use to perform automated banking transactions with bank 150.Automated banking terminal may be a standalone ATM or may be a set ofautomated banking functionality embedded in another computing device orsystem. In some cases, automated banking terminal 170 may comprisesoftware which includes computer readable instructions which, whenexecuted by a processor, direct the processor to perform the functionsof an automated banking terminal. In some cases, this software may beinstalled and operate on personal computer 110, mobile device 120, oranother computing device. Automated banking terminal 170 may interfacewith ATM network 160, bank 150, network 140, or any combination thereof.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, mobile device 120, automated baking terminal170, ATM network 160, bank 150, and banking network 130 may interactwith each other in a variety of ways including directly or throughnetwork 160. Using these elements, financial transactions may beperformed in a number of ways or at a number of different locations. Thetransactions may involve other banks accessible through banking network130, other ATMs accessible through ATM network 160, or other devices orentities accessible through network 140. The financial transactionsdescribed herein may be performed using these elements in a number ofdifferent manners or configurations.

FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of automated banking terminal 200in an exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Automated bankingterminal 200 comprises processor 230, communication interface 240,display 220, camera 270, and expansion slots 252-256 in which expansionmodules may be inserted. Automated banking terminal 200 is configuredfor performing automated financial transactions.

Processor 230 may be any type of microprocessor, computer,microcontroller, programmable logic, or computing device capable ofexecuting computer readable instructions. Processor 230 is configured todirect the other elements of automated banking terminal 200 to performthe functions outlined in the claims.

Display 220 may be any type of device for visually displayinginformation to a customer. Display 220 may be a liquid crystal display(LCD), cathode ray tube (CRT), light emitting diode (LED) display,touchscreen, electronic paper (e-paper) display, or a display on aseparate computing device. Camera 270 is any device for capturing imagesor video and transmitting the images or video to processor 230. Camera270 may be a still camera, digital camera, charge coupled device (CCD),video camera, or image capture device of another type.

Communication interface 240 provides an electronic communicationinterface to other devices. Communication interface 240 may be a wiredor wireless connection. Communication interface 240 may be a bus, aWi-Fi connection, a cellular phone interface, a network port, aBluetooth connection, an Ethernet port, a dedicated connection, amultiplexed port, or communication interface of another type and may usemetal, air, plastic, glass, or space as the medium of communication.

Expansion slots 252-256 each provide an electrical and mechanicalinterface to processor 230 and automated banking terminal 200. Expansionslots 252-256 allow expansion modules of various types to be insertedinto or interfaced with automated banking terminal 200. Expansionmodules 262-264 are examples of expansion modules which can beinterfaced to automated banking terminal 200 using the expansion slots.Expansion slots 252-256 provide standard interfaces such that differentcombinations of expansion modules can be interfaced to and used withautomated banking terminal 200. The interfaces may be standardized to aspecific model of automated banking terminal, to an entire family ofautomated banking terminals, or may be an industry standard used by manymanufacturers. The standardized interface allows automated bankingterminals to be designed relatively independently of the expansionmodules and allows expansion modules to be easily designed and built towork with a variety of automated banking terminals. The standardizedinterface also allows the automated banking terminals to be configuredin a variety of different ways.

Expansion modules 262 and 264 may be designed to perform a variety ofdifferent functions related to performing financial transactions. Forexample, each of expansion module 262 and 264 may be a cash dispensingmodule; a cash receiving and counting module; a check receiving module;a printer; a scanner; a biometric interface; a signature pad; an accountcard reader; an account card programmer; a card dispensing module suchas for dispensing prepaid or gift cards; a check printing module whichmay include an ability to print traveler's checks; location awareapplications and tracking services module such as GPS, gyroscope, andGIS devices; video conferencing module; augmented reality friendlydevices or another type of module which adds additional functionality toautomated banking terminal 200. Expansion modules may be inserted,removed, or modified to change the variety of services offered byautomated banking terminal 200.

Open menu options and enable applications may be activated based on theavailable modules. For example, automated banking terminal 200 may nothave the capability of receiving and counting cash deposits when it isinitially installed. However, a cash receiving and counting expansionmodule could be inserted into expansion slot 256 giving it thisfunctionality. In some embodiments, processor 230 is configured todetect the addition of the new cash receiving expansion module anddetermine additional menu options to be displayed on display 220associated with the module. For example, the menus may have notpreviously included an option for cash deposits because automatedbanking terminal 200 did not have the capability of receiving cash.However, once the new cash receiving module is inserted into expansionslot 256, a cash deposit menu option may be added to the list ofavailable menu options.

In another variation of the example above, automated banking terminal200 may be configured to determine a deposit amount of the cash depositand provide an access code which enables cash to be withdrawn at anotherautomated banking terminal. Automated banking terminal 200 communicatesthe information to make this withdrawal possible through bank 150, ATMnetwork 160, or network 140. The access code may be provided to thecustomer making the deposit or may automatically be communicated to theintended recipient of the cash through network 140.

Rather than through use of an access code, these types of transactionsmay also be accomplished by transferring a token to the intendedrecipient, transferring a token to a computing device of the intendedrecipient, or by crediting a mobile wallet of the intended recipient.

In another variation, a cash, gift card, or debit account may begenerated based on the cash deposit. A cash, gift, prepaid or debit cardmay be associated with the account and may be generated and programmedby automated banking terminal 200 or by another banking terminal in ATMnetwork 160. In some embodiments the automated banking terminal may loadthe cash, gift, prepaid or debit with funds.

In another variation, deposited cash may be used to pay bills using abill pay function implemented in automated banking terminal 200 or byinterfacing to an external bill pay engine through automated bankingterminal 200. These payments may include person-to-person payments,person-to-business payments or bill-pay payments.

In some embodiments, the scanner module may receive documents from acustomer, useful for several applications such as remote notary servicesand mortgage closing documents.

In some embodiments, automated banking terminal 200 is also configuredto detect discontinued operation of an expansion module and remove theassociated menu options. This may occur if the module is removed, fails,runs out of necessary supplies, or needs to be emptied or servicedbefore it can continue operation.

In some embodiments, camera 270 may be used for obtaining images of thecustomer. Images of the customer may be used to identify a customer forsecurity purposes. However, images from camera 270 may also be used forother purposes including to determine the customer's mood. If, forexample, automated banking terminal 200 determines that a customer isfrustrated, angry, or otherwise having difficulty completing theirtransaction, it may automatically initiate a live interactive helpsession with a remote customer service agent to help resolve the issue.In another example, a customer having a particularly positive experiencemay be solicited for customer or marketing feedback.

Special services may also be offered to a customer based on the identityof the customer. For example, menus may be configured based on thecustomer identify. Menus may be selected based on the menus which areapplicable to that customer's accounts or may be arranged in an order ofpriority based on the functions most frequently used by that customer.Many other examples are possible.

In some embodiments, camera 270, or another camera, may be used tomonitor an area around automated banking terminal 200. Processor 230 isconfigured to perform analysis on an image received from camera 270 todetermine the size of the line of customers waiting to use automatedbanking terminal 200. Based on this analysis, an estimated wait time isdetermined. The estimated wait time may displayed near the terminal,made available on the Internet, transmitted to mobile devices ofcustomers who are waiting to use automated banking terminal 200,transmitted the operator of automated banking terminal 200, or used inother ways. In addition to the wait time, automated banking terminal 200may also transmit information about what banking features are currentlyavailable and functioning.

In some cases, when a long line is detected, automated banking terminal200 may disable the features which typically take up the most time inorder to reduce wait times for customers in line. In order to minimizecustomer dissatisfaction, these disabled features may still be enabledfor specific customers who have a record of having previously used thesefeatures at this terminal. This may avoid a situation in which acustomer is frustrated because a feature he or she previously used atthe banking terminal is not available. Making the feature unavailable toall of the other customers may be a reasonable tradeoff for reducing thewait time.

In another example, customers may be able to use a mobile device toreserve a spot in line for automated banking terminal 200 beforearriving or before leaving their car. This function would effectivelyprovide an electronic means of implementing the “now serving customernumber XX” commonly implemented with paper tickets.

In addition to traditional ATM functions, expansion modules 262 and 264may be configured to perform other types of functions. For example,expansion module 264 may include a printer and processor 230 may beconfigured to print a document associated with a customer account whenthe customer accesses the account. The document could be a bankingdocument, a loan application, a statement, an insurance policy, a proofof insurance card, a beneficiary form, a claim form, or other document.Expansion module 264 could also be a scanner or a signature pad. Thesefeatures could be used in conjunction with the cameras, live help, andother previously described features to provide, for example, remotenotary services at automated banking terminal 200. The printer may beused in any enterprise application such as mortgage fulfillment where auser is required to print, sign and scan a document back to the company,a signature card printing for an account opening, printing of automobileinsurance (or other insurance) proof documents, for example.

In addition, automated banking terminal 200 may be configured to providefocused marketing advertisements or materials to customers based on thetypes of documents they print or scan or the types of transactions theyperform at the banking terminal. These marketing messages may bedisplayed on display 220, printed on a printer, or included with otherreceipts or documents provided to the customer.

In some embodiments, automated banking terminal 200 may be configured toestablish a communication session with a second automated bankingterminal located within a designated distance of automated bankingterminal 200. This may be useful because the second automated bankingterminal may have an expansion module which performs a specific functionneeded by a customer which is not currently available in automatedbanking terminal 200. Automated banking terminal 200 requests and/orreceives feature information from the second automated banking terminalabout the expansion modules available in the second automated bankingterminal. Automated banking terminal 200 then adds menu items associatedwith these other expansion modules to the list of menu items availableto the customer.

In some embodiments, a card receiving module may be inserted into one ofthe expansion slots. The card receiving module may be capable ofreceiving gift cards, cash cards, or other types of prepaid accountcards. Upon receipt, automated banking terminal 200 may deposit thebalance of these cards into the customer's account, consolidate theminto a single card/account, or direct the funds associated with the cardin another manner.

FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary method of facilitating a financialtransaction at automated banking terminal 200 or at another type ofautomated banking terminal. At step 310 the method starts by launching atransaction staging application on a computing device like personalcomputer 110 or mobile device 120. The transaction staging applicationcomprises a software application which may reside on the computingdevice, may be accessed over a network, or may be accessed as a webpage. At step 320, transaction data associated with the financialtransaction is entered into the transaction staging application in auser interface of the computing device. This allows the customer tocomplete some of the steps of the transaction at home, in their car, orat some location other than standing in front of the automated bankingterminal.

Once the customer begins the transaction at the automated bankingterminal, the previously entered transaction data is retrieved and madeavailable to the automated banking terminal (step 330). Any remainingsteps associated with the financial transaction are completed while thecustomer is at the automated banking terminal (step 340). Theseremaining steps may involve depositing cash, receiving cash, depositingchecks, submitting biometric data, printing documents, scanningdocuments, or other steps which require direct interaction with theautomated banking terminal.

In some embodiments, the computing device used in steps 310 and 320 ofFIG. 3 comprises a mobile computing device. In this case, acommunication link may be established between the between the mobilecomputing device and the automated banking terminal. This connection maybe a wireless connection or a wired connection which is established whenthe customer approaches the automated banking terminal.

In other embodiments, the transaction data which is pre-entered by thecustomer is transmitted to an automated banking server, ATM network 160,bank 150, or some centralized computing system. When the customer beginsthe banking transaction at the automated banking terminal, thetransaction data is retrieved from this centralized location. Oneexample of this type of operation may be a customer who pre-enters thetransaction from a home computer or a mobile device and then goes to theautomated banking terminal to complete the transaction at some latertime. The automated banking terminal may be triggered to retrieve thetransaction data in response to receipt of some type of customeridentifying information. This information could be an account number, apasscode, biometric information, a swipe of an account card, a token, orother information which identifies the customer or the transaction. Forexample, the customer may receive a barcode such as a quick response(QR) code or other tokens after initiating the transaction. The tokenmay contain information regarding the desired transaction, as well asother contextual transaction information, such as information about thecustomer, the time the transaction was started or completed, theexpiration of the barcode, etc. The token may be exchanged from a mobilecomputing device to a kiosk or banking terminal (and vice versa) totransfer the financial transaction from one device to the other. Thetoken may also securely identify that a given customer is actuallystanding near, or within a predetermined proximity of the kiosk orautomated banking terminal. The automated banking terminal may transmitthe financial transaction information to a mobile device of the user byuse of a token or otherwise.

FIG. 4 illustrates automated banking terminal 400. Automated bankingterminal 400 is an example of automated banking terminal 170 andautomated banking terminal 200 although other configurations andoperations are possible. Automated banking terminal 400 comprisesdisplay 420, card reader 430, user interface 440, cash module 450,printing module 460, and camera 470.

Display 420 is an example of display 220 although other configurationsand operations are possible. Camera 470 is an example of camera 270although other configurations and operations are possible.

Card reader 430 comprises any type of device for reading informationfrom an account card. Card reader 430 could be configured to readmagnetic strips, memory cards, SIM cards, or read electronic informationthrough other means including through wired or wireless connections. Asimilar device could also be used to interface with a customer's mobilecomputing device.

User interface 440 comprises any type of device for receiving customerinput and could comprise a keyboard, mouse, touchscreen, keypad, buttonarray, or input device of another type. User interface 440 may also beimplemented on the mobile computing device of a customer.

Cash module 450 is one example of expansion module 262 or 264 asillustrated in FIG. 2. Cash module 450 is interfaced to automatedbanking terminal 400 through an expansion slot similar to expansionslots 252-256 of FIG. 2. Printer module 460 is another example ofexpansion module 262 or 264 as illustrated in FIG. 2. Printer module 460is also interfaced to automated banking terminal 400 through anexpansion slot similar to expansion slots 252-256 of FIG. 2. Many otherexpansion modules are possible and these two are shown for illustrationpurposes only. In some embodiments, the automated banking terminalincludes an automated banking module check scanner module that allowsfor a check to be retained within the automated banking terminal andreturns the check to the customer with the check destroyed to preventrepresentment. The check may be destroyed by various methods. Forexample, the MICR (magnetic ink character recognition) line maydestroyed by punching holes or spraying magnetic ink in significantplaces along the MICR characters to destroy the routing number andaccount number.

It should be understood that functions of automated banking terminal 400may also be implemented on computing platforms of other types includinga personal computer. In the personal computer implementation, thepersonal computer may be implemented with a safe, lock-box, or cash boxof some other type. Banking transactions could be performed using thepersonal computer and a network connection and any cash interactionswill be accomplished by depositing cash to or withdrawing cash from thesafe, lock-box, or cash box. A similar implementation could beaccomplished using a customer's mobile computing device in which theinteraction occurs using the mobile computing device and a publiclyavailable banking terminal comprising a cash box and a networkconnection.

FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary sequence of menu options presented on adisplay of automated banking terminal 170, 200, or 400. The sequence isone possible series of menu options displayed to customers as theconfiguration of the automated banking terminal changes over time.Display 500A depicts the menu options which may be available on theautomated banking terminal when only the basic cash withdrawal featuresare enabled. In this mode, a customer may check their account balance,withdraw cash, or end the banking session. Other features may not beavailable because expansion modules associated with these features arenot installed, are not functioning properly, need serviced, or haveotherwise been deactivated by the operator of the automated bankingterminal.

At some point in time, the operator may enable deposit and printingfeatures on the automated banking terminal. This may be accomplished byinserting one or more expansion modules, like expansion module 262 or264, into one or more expansion slots of the terminal. Also, thesefeatures may be added by enabling capabilities or modules which arealready present in the banking terminal. In either case, display 500Billustrates new menu options which are available to the customer basedon these new features. In this example, menu options are now availablefor depositing checks or cash as well as for printing documents. In someexamples, the software of the automated banking terminal automaticallydetects the addition or connection of expansion modules andautomatically determines what additional menu options will be madeavailable to the customer.

At a later point in time, a module may be removed, need servicing, orbecome inoperable for some other reason. The automated banking terminalautomatically detects the removal or discontinued operation of theexpansion module and automatically makes appropriate changes to the listof available menu options. In this way, a customer is not presented witha menu option for a feature which is not currently working. In thisexample, the “print documents” menu option has been removed from display500C. This may be because the printing module has been removed, failed,needs printing supplies replenished, or has been deactivated by theautomated banking terminal for some other reason. Once the printingmodule is again available or activated, this menu option will return andbe available to customers.

FIG. 6 illustrates an exemplary method of configuring an automatedbanking terminal. At step 610, the automated banking terminal determineswhich expansion modules are installed. Their installation may bedetermined through a mechanical detection, an electrical detection,inputs made by a technician, or any combination thereof. At step 620,the automated banking terminal tests the detected modules for properoperation. These tests may be completed using automated diagnosticroutines, using input from a technician, or some combination thereof.Once a determination is made regarding which installed expansion modulesare operating correctly, software running on the processor of theautomated banking terminal determines which menu options will bedisplayed. The determination is based, at least in part, on whichexpansion modules are installed and operating. Features associated withsome menu options may be built into the automated banking terminal, maybe available elsewhere, or may not be associated with an expansionmodule.

At step 630, the applicable menu options are displayed. In someexamples, this may result in a display similar to display 500A. Manyother configurations are possible. A customer may now choose from theseavailable menu options and perform a banking transaction (step 640).

The automated banking terminal will periodically, or in response tocommand from the operator, return to step 610 and perform a reassessmentof which modules are installed and operating properly. Based on the mostrecent detection and test of the expansion modules, new menu options maybe added (as illustrated by a transition from display 500A to display500B) or menu options may be removed (as illustrated by a transitionfrom display 500B to display 500C).

In some embodiments, the banking terminal detects the functionality andstatus of each module installed and exchanges the information with acentral host. For example, when there is a change in the status of thebanking terminal, the banking terminal may detect the change andself-report the change to a central host. The up-to-date informationregarding the particular functionality of each banking terminal andstatus information may be documented in a database. Customers may accessthe banking terminal information via an application provided by thebanking terminal's owner or other entity associated with the bankingterminal. The customer may specify the functionality required, and theapplication may be configured to present the user with a list and/or amap of locations of banking terminals in which the particularfunctionality is installed and in service. Thus, the self-detectionfeature of the banking terminal may also be used to provide customersnear real-time information regarding the functionality of a bankingterminal.

In some embodiments, the banking terminal communicates information tocustomers' computing device independent of a central host. For example,the banking terminal may be configured to communicate with a customercomputing device via BlueTooth, WiFi, NFC or other protocol. Inoperation, the customer may be in a location near a banking terminal anddesire to deposit a check. The customer's computing device configured toreceive such communication may receive information from the bankingterminal reporting which components are installed and the operationalstatus of those components. For example, the banking terminal mayprovide an indication to the customer's computing device that thebanking terminal is equipped with the functionality to deposit a check,but that the check depositing feature is not currently in service. Thebanking terminal may be further configured to determine nearby bankingterminals with the desired functionality and operational status andreport this information to the customer. Thus, the banking terminal hasinteractive features available to customers.

Exemplary Computer System Overview:

Embodiments of the present invention include various steps andoperations, which have been described above. A variety of these stepsand operations may be performed by hardware components or may beembodied in instructions which are machine-executable andmachine-readable. These instructions may be used to cause ageneral-purpose or special-purpose processor programmed with theinstructions to perform the steps. Alternatively, the steps may beperformed by a combination of hardware, software, and/or firmware. Assuch, FIG. 7 is an example of a computer system 700 with whichembodiments of the present invention may be utilized. According to thepresent example, the computer system includes a bus 705, at least oneprocessor 710, at least one communication port 715, a main memory 720, aremovable storage media 725, a read only memory 730, and a mass storage735.

Processor(s) 710 can be any known processor, such as, but not limitedto, an Intel® Itanium® or Itanium 2® processor(s), or AMD® Opteron® orAthlon MP® processor(s), or Motorola® lines of processors. Communicationport(s) 715 can be any of an RS-232 port for use with a modem baseddialup connection, a 10/100 Ethernet port, or a Gigabit port usingcopper or fiber. Communication port(s) 715 may be chosen depending on anetwork such a Local Area Network (LAN), Wide Area Network (WAN), or anynetwork to which the computer system 700 connects.

Main memory 720 can be Random Access Memory (RAM), or any other dynamicstorage device(s) commonly known in the art. Read only memory 730 can beany static storage device(s) such as Programmable Read Only Memory(PROM) chips for storing static information such as instructions forprocessor 710.

Mass storage 735 can be used to store information and instructions. Forexample, hard disks such as the Adaptec® family of SCSI drives, anoptical disc, an array of disks such as RAID, such as the Adaptec familyof RAID drives, or any other mass storage devices may be used. Thestorage medium may be transitory or non-transitory.

Bus 705 communicatively couples processor(s) 710 with the other memory,storage, and communication blocks. Bus 705 can be a PCI/PCI-X or SCSIbased system bus depending on the storage devices used.

Removable storage media 725 can be any kind of external hard-drives,floppy drives, (OMEGA® Zip Drives, Compact Disc-Read Only Memory(CD-ROM), Compact Disc-Re-Writable (CD-RW), Digital Video Disk-Read OnlyMemory (DVD-ROM).

The components described above are meant to exemplify some types ofpossibilities. In no way should the aforementioned examples limit thescope of the invention, as they are only exemplary embodiments.

Terminology:

Brief definitions of terms, abbreviations, and phrases used throughoutthis application are given below.

The terms “connected” or “coupled” and related terms are used in anoperational sense and are not necessarily limited to a direct physicalconnection or coupling. Thus, for example, two devices may be coupleddirectly, or via one or more intermediary media or devices. As anotherexample, devices may be coupled in such a way that information can bepassed therebetween, while not sharing any physical connection with oneanother. Based on the disclosure provided herein, one of ordinary skillin the art will appreciate a variety of ways in which connection orcoupling exists in accordance with the aforementioned definition.

The phrases “in some embodiments,” “according to some embodiments,” “inthe embodiments shown,” “in other embodiments,” “in some examples” andthe like generally mean the particular feature, structure, orcharacteristic following the phrase is included in at least oneembodiment of the present invention, and may be included in more thanone embodiment of the present invention. In addition, such phrases donot necessarily refer to the same embodiments or different embodiments.

If the specification states a component or feature “may”, “can”,“could”, or “might” be included or have a characteristic, thatparticular component or feature is not required to be included or havethe characteristic.

The term “responsive” includes completely or partially responsive.

The term “module” refers broadly to a software, hardware, or firmware(or any combination thereof) component. Modules are typically functionalcomponents that can generate useful data or other output using specifiedinput(s). A module may or may not be self-contained. An applicationprogram (also called an “application”) may include one or more modules,or a module can include one or more application programs.

The term “network” generally refers to a group of interconnected devicescapable of exchanging information. A network may be as few as severalpersonal computers on a Local Area Network (LAN) or as large as theInternet, a worldwide network of computers. As used herein “network” isintended to encompass any network capable of transmitting informationfrom one entity to another. In some cases, a network may be comprised ofmultiple networks, even multiple heterogeneous networks, such as one ormore border networks, voice networks, broadband networks, financialnetworks, service provider networks, Internet Service Provider (ISP)networks, and/or Public Switched Telephone Networks (PSTNs),interconnected via gateways operable to facilitate communicationsbetween and among the various networks.

Embodiments of the present invention may be provided as a computerprogram product which may include a non-transitory machine-readablemedium having stored thereon instructions which may be used to program acomputer (or other electronic devices) to perform a process. Themachine-readable medium may include, but is not limited to, floppydiskettes, optical disks, compact disc read-only memories (CD-ROMs), andmagneto-optical disks, ROMs, random access memories (RAMs), erasableprogrammable read-only memories (EPROMs), electrically erasableprogrammable read-only memories (EEPROMs), magnetic or optical cards,flash memory, or other type of media/machine-readable medium suitablefor storing electronic instructions. Moreover, embodiments of thepresent invention may also be downloaded as a computer program product,wherein the program may be transferred from a remote computer to arequesting computer by way of data signals embodied in a carrier wave orother propagation medium via a communication link (e.g., a modem ornetwork connection).

While, for convenience, embodiments of the present invention aredescribed with reference to performing certain banking transactions, theinvention is not limited to the specific examples of transactiondescribed here. The invention may also be applicable to many other typesof transactions performed at an automated banking terminal ortransactions performed at a computing device of another type.

Also, for the sake of illustration, various embodiments of the presentinvention have herein been described in the context of computerprograms, physical components, and logical interactions within moderncomputer networks. Importantly, while these embodiments describe variousaspects of the invention in relation to modern computer networks andprograms, the method and apparatus described herein are equallyapplicable to other systems, devices, and networks as one skilled in theart will appreciate. As such, the illustrated applications of theembodiments of the present invention are not meant to be limiting, butinstead exemplary. Other systems, devices, and networks to whichembodiments of the present invention are applicable include, but are notlimited to, other types of communication and computer devices andsystems. More specifically, embodiments are applicable to communicationsystems, services, and devices such as computers, smartphones, andmobile computing devices. In addition, embodiments are applicable to alllevels of computing from a personal computer to large network mainframesand servers.

In conclusion, the present invention provides novel systems, methods,and arrangements for systems and methods to facilitate financialtransactions. While detailed descriptions of one or more embodiments ofthe invention have been given above, various alternatives,modifications, and equivalents will be apparent to those skilled in theart without varying from the spirit of the invention. For example, whilethe embodiments described above refer to particular features, the scopeof this invention also includes embodiments having differentcombinations of features and embodiments that do not include all of thedescribed features. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention isintended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variationsas fall within the scope of the claims, together with all equivalentsthereof. Therefore, the above description should not be taken aslimiting the scope of the invention, which is defined by the appendedclaims.

What is claimed is:
 1. An automated banking terminal for facilitating afinancial transaction comprising: a processor; a display for presentinga set of customer menu options; a communication interface; a pluralityof expansion slots each comprising a mechanical interface and anelectrical interface; and an expansion module operationally connected tothe processor through at least one of the plurality of expansion slotswherein the expansion module comprises one or more of: a cash dispensingmodule, a cash receiving and counting module, a check receiving module,a card dispensing module, a check printing module, a location awareapplications module, a video conferencing module, augmented realityfriendly devices, a printer, a scanner, a biometric interface, asignature pad, an account card reader, or an account card programmer;wherein the processor is configured to: detect the expansion module,receive information that includes an identity of a customer, arrangemenu options in the set of customer menu options based at least in parton the detected expansion module and the identity of the customer,establish a communication session through the communication interfacewith a second automated banking terminal located within a designateddistance of the automated banking terminal, receive feature informationfor an expansion module of the second automated banking terminal, anddetermine ancillary menu options to supplement the set of customer menuoptions based in part on the received feature information for theexpansion module of the second automated banking terminal.
 2. Theautomated banking terminal of claim 1 wherein the menu options arearranged in an order of priority based on frequency of use, and whereinthe processor is further configured to: detect discontinued operation ofthe expansion module; and remove at least a portion of the menu optionsfrom the set of customer menu options in response to detecting thediscontinued operation of the expansion module.
 3. The automated bankingterminal of claim 1 further comprising a camera for monitoring thecustomer of the automated banking terminal, and wherein the processor isfurther configured to perform analysis on an image from the camera todetermine the identity of the customer or a mood of the customer.
 4. Theautomated banking terminal of claim 3 wherein the processor, using thedisplay, the camera, and the communication interface, is furtherconfigured to initiate a live interactive help session with a remotecustomer service agent based on the identity of the customer or the moodof the customer.
 5. The automated banking terminal of claim 1 whereinthe processor is further configured to: establish a wirelesscommunication session through the communication interface with a mobilecomputing device of the customer; receive, in the wireless communicationsession, instructions for the financial transaction input by thecustomer in a user interface of the mobile computing device; andidentify that the customer is within a predetermined proximity of theautomated banking terminal.
 6. The automated banking terminal of claim 3wherein the camera is further configured to monitor an area around theautomated banking terminal, and wherein the processor is furtherconfigured to: perform the analysis on the image received from thecamera to determine a size of a line of additional customers waiting touse the automated banking terminal; estimate a wait time based on thesize of the line of additional customers; and transmit the estimatedwait time over the communication interface.
 7. The automated bankingterminal of claim 1 wherein the expansion module comprises the printer,wherein the processor is further configured to print a documentassociated with a customer account when the customer account is accessedat the automated banking terminal, wherein the expansion modulecomprises the scanner, and wherein the processor is further configuredto receive the document from the customer.
 8. The automated bankingterminal of claim 1 wherein: the expansion module is configured toreceive a cash deposit or a payment; and the processor is furtherconfigured to: determine a deposit amount or a payment amount of thecash deposit or the payment; and provide an access code which enableswithdrawal or receipt of cash in an amount less than or equal to thedeposit amount at the second automated banking terminal.
 9. Theautomated banking terminal of claim 1 wherein: the expansion module isconfigured to receive a cash deposit from the customer; and theprocessor is further configured to: determine a deposit amount of thecash deposit; and credit a prepaid card account in an amount less thanor equal to the deposit amount.
 10. The automated banking terminal ofclaim 9 wherein the automated banking terminal provides a prepaid cardassociated with the prepaid card account to the customer.
 11. A methodof facilitating a financial transaction comprising: providing anautomated banking terminal, wherein the automated banking terminalcomprises: a processor; a display for presenting a set of customer menuoptions; a communication interface; a plurality of expansion slots eachcomprising a mechanical interface and an electrical interface; and anexpansion module operationally connected to the processor through atleast one of the plurality of expansion slots wherein the expansionmodule comprises one or more of: a cash dispensing module, a cashreceiving and counting module, a check receiving module, a carddispensing module, a check printing module, a location awareapplications module, a video conferencing module, augmented realityfriendly devices, a printer, a scanner, a biometric interface, asignature pad, an account card reader, or an account card programmer;and configuring the processor to: detect the expansion module, receiveinformation that includes an identity of a customer, arrange menuoptions in the set of customer menu options based at least in part onthe detected expansion module and the identity of the customer,establish a communication session through the communication interfacewith a second automated banking terminal located within a designateddistance of the automated banking terminal, receive feature informationfor an expansion module of the second automated banking terminal, anddetermine ancillary menu options to supplement the set of customer menuoptions based in part on the received feature information for theexpansion module of the second automated banking terminal.
 12. Themethod of claim 11 wherein the menu options are arranged in an order ofpriority based on frequency of use, and wherein the processor is furtherconfigured to: detect discontinued operation of the expansion module;and remove at least a portion of the menu options from the set ofcustomer menu options in response to detecting the discontinuedoperation of the expansion module.
 13. The method of claim 11 furthercomprising providing a camera for monitoring the customer of theautomated banking terminal, and wherein the processor is furtherconfigured to perform analysis on an image from the camera to determinethe identity of the customer or a mood of the customer.
 14. The methodof claim 13 wherein the processor, using the display, the camera, andthe communication interface, is further configured to initiate a liveinteractive help session with a remote customer service agent based onthe identity of the customer or the mood of the customer.
 15. The methodof claim 11 wherein the processor is further configured to: establish awireless communication session through the communication interface witha mobile computing device of the customer; and receive, in the wirelesscommunication session, instructions for the financial transaction inputby the customer in a user interface of the mobile computing device. 16.The method of claim 13 wherein the camera is further configured tomonitor an area around the automated banking terminal, and wherein theprocessor is further configured to: perform the analysis on the imagereceived from the camera to determine a size of a line of additionalcustomers waiting to use the automated banking terminal; estimate a waittime based on the size of the line of additional customers; and transmitthe estimated wait time over the communication interface.
 17. The methodof claim 11 wherein: the expansion module is configured to receive acash deposit; and the processor is further configured to: determine adeposit amount of the cash deposit; and provide an access code whichenables withdrawal of cash in an amount less than or equal to thedeposit amount at the second automated banking terminal.
 18. The methodof claim 11 wherein: the expansion module is configured to receive acash deposit from the customer; and the processor is further configuredto: determine a deposit amount of the cash deposit; and credit a giftcard account in an amount less than or equal to the deposit amount,wherein the automated banking terminal provides a gift card associatedwith the gift card account to the customer.
 19. The automated bankingterminal of claim 1 wherein: the expansion module is configured toreceive a cash deposit or a payment; and the processor is furtherconfigured to: determine a deposit amount or a payment amount of thecash deposit or the payment; and credit a mobile wallet of an intendedrecipient.